Pune faces urgent need for improved pool safety protocols

Drowning incidents in Pune have raised concerns about safety at swimming pools. Recent events include a six-year-old drowning in a pool under maintenance and an 85-year-old man drowning despite a lifeguard being present. These tragedies highlight the need for better supervision and safety measures. Many housing societies lack trained lifeguards because of budget constraints. One society on Salunke Vihar Road has kept its pool empty for three years due to financial challenges. Others have hired individuals with basic swimming skills instead of certified lifeguards, questioning their ability to keep swimmers safe. Some societies have turned pools into water storage facilities without enforcing safety measures. A member of a housing committee in Undri stated that residents are informed that the pool area is restricted and should supervise their own children. Public swimming pools are also under review. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is conducting an audit of 35 public pools with the help of the Rashtriya Life Saving Society India (RLSS). A workshop on pool safety is scheduled for March 24 to discuss lifeguard training and drowning prevention. Local leaders are advocating for improved safety measures, promoting supervision of children and proper pool barriers. Rohan Gaikwad, a local political leader, has shared important safety precautions with housing societies and is assisting them in hiring qualified lifeguards. The PMC delegates pool management to third-party contractors, but enforcement of safety rules is a challenge. Officials stress that stricter enforcement, regular safety audits, and accountable pool management are essential to make swimming pools safe for the community.